Lake Five – Whitefish City Beach loop from Glacier Rim River Access
Lake Five – Whitefish City Beach loop from Glacier Rim River Access
4.6
(3808)
9,719
riders
Lake Five – Whitefish City Beach loop from Glacier Rim River Access
05:07
109km
740m
Road cycling
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 74.0 km for 246 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
12.2 km
Lake Five Resort campground
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
12.9 km
Lake Five
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
18.4 km
Entrance to Glacier National Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
19.0 km
Glacier National Park Entrance (West Glacier)
Highlight • Rest Area
The park encompasses over 1 million acres (4,000 km2) and includes parts of two mountain ranges (sub-ranges of the Rocky Mountains), over …
Tip by
20.1 km
Apgar Bike Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
71.0 km
Views of Whitefish Depot
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
73.8 km
Whitefish City Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
109 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
92.9 km
10.3 km
4.66 km
868 m
542 m
235 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
63.3 km
45.9 km
416 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,050 m)
Lowest point (920 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
16°C
9°C
45 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a truly demanding road cycling adventure in Montana, the Lake Five – Whitefish City Beach loop from Glacier Rim River Access is definitely worth your time. This difficult 68.0-mile (109.5 km) road cycling route packs in 2431 feet (741 metres) of climbing, taking around 5 hours and 6 minutes to complete. It's a serious undertaking best suited for experienced cyclists with very good fitness who are ready for a long day in the saddle.
What to expect on Lake Five – Whitefish City Beach loop from Glacier Rim River Access
This loop takes you deep into the diverse and rugged landscapes of the Northern Rocky Mountains. While primarily a road cycling route, be prepared for mixed surfaces; some segments are unpaved, meaning you might encounter gravel or dirt sections that add to the challenge and require a suitable bike. As you pedal, you'll be treated to stunning natural features, including views of pristine glacial waters, especially as you approach Whitefish Lake and the popular Whitefish City Beach. The route offers a journey through scenic mountain vistas and possibly past meandering rivers and birch trees, making the effort well worth it for the views.
Planning your visit
Given its length and difficulty, planning is key for this Lake Five Whitefish City Beach loop cycling route. The route starts from the Glacier Rim River Access, so ensure you have parking sorted there. This is a long ride, so carry plenty of water and nutrition, especially on warmer days. The mixed-surface sections mean a robust road bike or a gravel bike would be ideal. Always check current road conditions before you head out, as unpaved sections can be unpredictable, and the best season for cycling in this region is typically late spring through early fall.
Trail details
- Distance: 68.0 miles (109.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 2431 feet (741 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 5 hours and 6 minutes
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